Jump to Key Sections
Internet Explorer 11 is a popular web browser that comes pre-installed on Windows 8.1. However, it is not uncommon for users to experience slow performance when using this browser. Slow page loading, unresponsive tabs, and frequent crashes can make browsing the web a frustrating experience. In this blog post, we will explore various methods to speed up Internet Explorer 11 on Windows 8.1, so you can enjoy a faster and smoother browsing experience.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
To implement the methods mentioned in this blog post, you will need a computer running Windows 8.1 with Internet Explorer 11 installed. It is highly recommended to have the latest updates installed for both the operating system and the browser. Additionally, you may need administrative privileges on your computer to perform certain tasks, such as disabling add-ons or clearing the cache.
What Requires Your Focus?
Speeding up Internet Explorer 11 requires your focus on several aspects. First, you need to identify and disable unnecessary add-ons and plugins that may be slowing down the browser. Second, clearing the cache and history regularly can help improve performance. Third, optimizing the browser’s settings and adjusting the security levels can have a positive impact on speed. Finally, keeping the browser and the operating system up to date ensures that you have the latest performance optimizations and bug fixes.
Method 1. How to Disable Add-ons Via Internet Explorer 11
Add-ons are third-party extensions that enhance the functionality of Internet Explorer. However, some add-ons may negatively affect the browser’s performance. To disable add-ons in Internet Explorer 11, follow these steps:
1. Launch Internet Explorer 11.
2. Click on the gear icon in the top-right corner of the browser window to open the Tools menu.
3. Select "Manage add-ons" from the dropdown menu.
4. In the Manage Add-ons window, click on the "Toolbars and Extensions" option in the left sidebar.
5. Select any add-ons you wish to disable.
6. Click on the "Disable" button at the bottom-right corner of the window.
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 for any other add-ons you want to disable.
8. Close the Manage Add-ons window.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Disabling unnecessary add-ons can significantly improve browser performance. | 1. Some add-ons may provide useful functionality that you may want to keep enabled. |
| 2. Disabling add-ons reduces the memory usage of the browser, resulting in improved overall system performance. | 2. If you disable an add-on that is required for a specific website or functionality, you may experience issues when using that website or feature. |
| 3. Disabling add-ons can help minimize security risks associated with malicious or vulnerable add-ons. | 3. Identifying and disabling problematic add-ons may require some trial and error, as there is no definitive way to determine which add-ons are causing performance issues. |
Method 2. How to Clear the Cache Via Internet Explorer 11
The cache is a temporary storage location that stores copies of web pages, images, and other web content to improve browsing speed. However, an excessive accumulation of cache files may slow down Internet Explorer 11. Clearing the cache can help improve browser performance. To clear the cache in Internet Explorer 11, follow these steps:
1. Launch Internet Explorer 11.
2. Click on the gear icon in the top-right corner of the browser window to open the Tools menu.
3. Select "Internet options" from the dropdown menu.
4. In the Internet Options window, navigate to the "General" tab.
5. Under the "Browsing history" section, click on the "Delete" button.
6. In the Delete Browsing History window, check the "Temporary Internet files and website files" option.
7. Optionally, you can also select other items you want to delete, such as cookies or history.
8. Click on the "Delete" button.
9. Wait for the process to complete, then click on the "OK" button to close the Internet Options window.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Clearing the cache frees up disk space, which can lead to improved overall system performance. | 1. Clearing the cache may temporarily slow down website loading times as the browser needs to fetch fresh content. |
| 2. Clearing the cache can resolve issues with websites displaying outdated or incorrect content. | 2. Clearing the cache will remove any saved login information or personalized settings on websites. |
| 3. Clearing the cache can help resolve issues with websites not working correctly or displaying errors. | 3. Clearing the cache needs to be done periodically to maintain optimal browser performance. |
Method 3. How to Optimize Internet Explorer 11 Settings Via Windows Control Panel
Optimizing Internet Explorer 11 settings through the Windows Control Panel can help improve the browser’s performance. To optimize Internet Explorer 11 settings, follow these steps:
1. Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard to open the Power User menu.
2. Select "Control Panel" from the menu.
3. In the Control Panel window, click on the "Network and Internet" category.
4. Click on the "Internet Options" link.
5. In the Internet Options window, navigate to the "Advanced" tab.
6. Under the "Settings" section, review the options and make the following adjustments:
– Disable smooth scrolling by unchecking the "Use smooth scrolling" option.
– Disable hardware acceleration by unchecking the "Use software rendering instead of GPU rendering" option.
– Disable image resizing by unchecking the "Enable automatic image resizing" option.
7. Click on the "Apply" button, then click on the "OK" button to save the changes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Optimizing Internet Explorer 11 settings can result in improved browser performance and responsiveness. | 1. Disabling certain options, such as hardware acceleration, may impact the rendering of certain websites or web applications. |
| 2. Optimizing settings can help reduce the browser’s memory usage, leading to improved overall system performance. | 2. Adjusting settings may require some experimentation to find the optimal configuration for your system and browsing habits. |
| 3. Optimizing settings can enhance the browsing experience by disabling unwanted or potentially problematic features. | 3. Changes made to the settings may not be suitable for all users or may cause compatibility issues with certain websites or web applications. |
Method 4. How to Keep Internet Explorer 11 and Windows 8.1 Updated
Keeping both Internet Explorer 11 and Windows 8.1 up to date is crucial for ensuring optimal browser performance and security. Updates often include performance optimizations, bug fixes, and security patches. To update Internet Explorer 11 and Windows 8.1, follow these steps:
1. Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard to open the Power User menu.
2. Select "Control Panel" from the menu.
3. In the Control Panel window, click on the "Windows Update" category.
4. Click on the "Check for updates" link.
5. If any updates are available for Internet Explorer 11 or Windows 8.1, click on the "Install updates" button.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the updates.
7. Restart your computer if prompted to complete the update process.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Keeping Internet Explorer 11 and Windows 8.1 updated ensures that you have the latest performance optimizations and bug fixes. | 1. Updates may consume Internet bandwidth and take some time to download and install. |
| 2. Updates often include security patches, reducing the risk of malware or other vulnerabilities affecting your system. | 2. Occasionally, updates may introduce new issues or conflicts with certain hardware or software configurations. |
| 3. Having the latest updates helps ensure compatibility with the latest web technologies and standards. | 3. Some updates may require a system restart, which can interrupt ongoing work or processes. |
Why Can’t I Speed Up Internet Explorer 11?
There can be several reasons why you may encounter difficulties in speeding up Internet Explorer 11 on Windows 8.1. Here are some common reasons and their possible fixes:
1. Q1: The browser is outdated.
A: Make sure you have the latest version of Internet Explorer 11 installed. Check for updates and install any available updates for both the browser and the operating system.
2. Q2: The system is low on resources.
A: Close any unnecessary programs or processes running in the background to free up system resources for Internet Explorer 11. Consider upgrading your computer’s hardware if it is not meeting the minimum system requirements.
3. Q3: There are conflicting add-ons or plugins.
A: Disable or remove any unnecessary or problematic add-ons or plugins. Use the Manage Add-ons feature in Internet Explorer 11 to identify and disable them.
4. Q4: The cache has become bloated.
A: Clear the cache and browsing history regularly to remove accumulated temporary files. Use the steps mentioned in the previous section to clear the cache.
5. Q5: The browser’s settings are not optimized.
A: Optimize the settings of Internet Explorer 11 as outlined in the "Optimize Internet Explorer 11 Settings" section of this blog post. Adjusting settings, such as disabling hardware acceleration, can help improve performance.
Implications and Recommendations
To further improve your browsing experience, here are three additional recommendations:
1. Regularly scan for malware: Install reputable antivirus software and keep it up to date. Regularly scan your computer for malware and other security threats that may compromise the performance of Internet Explorer 11.
2. Use alternative browsers: Consider using alternative web browsers, such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. Different browsers may perform better on certain websites or under specific circumstances.
3. Optimize your internet connection: Contact your internet service provider to ensure you are getting the best possible internet connection speed. Consider upgrading your internet plan or optimizing your Wi-Fi network to achieve faster browsing speeds.
5 FAQs about Speeding Up Internet Explorer 11
Q1: Can I uninstall Internet Explorer 11?
A: No, Internet Explorer 11 is an integral part of Windows 8.1 and cannot be uninstalled. However, you can disable it and switch to an alternative browser if you prefer.
Q2: Can I enable hardware acceleration for better performance?
A: Hardware acceleration can improve performance in some cases, but it may cause issues with certain graphics-intensive websites or applications. If you experience graphical glitches or other problems, consider disabling hardware acceleration.
Q3: How often should I clear the cache?
A: Clearing the cache periodically, such as once a month or whenever you notice performance issues, is recommended. However, if you frequently visit websites that frequently update their content, you may need to clear the cache more frequently.
Q4: Will these methods work on other versions of Windows?
A: While some of the methods mentioned in this blog post may work on other versions of Windows, the steps and locations of certain options may vary. It is recommended to consult the documentation or support resources specific to your operating system version.
Q5: Is Internet Explorer 11 the fastest browser?
A: Internet Explorer 11 is not considered the fastest browser compared to more modern alternatives like Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. However, implementing the methods mentioned in this blog post can help improve its performance.
Final Words
By following the methods and recommendations provided in this blog post, you can significantly improve the speed and performance of Internet Explorer 11 on Windows 8.1. Remember to regularly update the browser and the operating system, optimize the settings, clear the cache, and disable unnecessary add-ons. Additionally, consider scanning for malware, using alternative browsers, and optimizing your internet connection for an even better browsing experience. Enjoy the benefits of a faster and smoother web browsing experience with Internet Explorer 11.